A three-storey building under construction collapsed on the night of Friday, September 12, 2025, at No. 333 Borno Street, Alagomeji, Yaba, Lagos State, trapping several people under the rubble as emergency teams rushed to the scene to mount rescue operations.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the incident occurred around 8:30 p.m., and teams from NEMA, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Nigerian Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) quickly mobilized to the site. So far, four adult males have been rescued alive and are receiving medical treatment in hospital, while one male victim’s body has been recovered from the debris.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud cracking sounds before the building suddenly gave way. One witness, Mr. Olumide Adewale, said, “I was passing by when I heard a loud noise and saw dust everywhere. People were screaming for help, and emergency teams arrived quickly to help those trapped.” The exact number of persons still trapped remains uncertain, with speculations that two or more people may be beneath the rubble.

NEMA noted in a statement, “Search and rescue operations are still ongoing at the collapse site. The area has been cordoned off to ensure safety and smooth operation. No effort will be spared to save lives.” Safety officials have warned members of the public to keep clear of the site as the rescue operation continues into the night.

Building collapses in Lagos and other Nigerian cities have become a recurrent tragedy, often linked to poor construction standards, use of substandard materials, and inadequate regulatory enforcement. Lagos State authorities frequently issue warnings to developers and have sealed several buildings deemed unsafe. Unfortunately, many constructions proceed without proper adherence to building codes, risking lives and property.

Dr. Chika Okafor, a structural engineer, commented on the frequent collapses, explaining, “Most collapses are preventable with strict regulation enforcement, quality materials, and proper supervision. It is imperative that regulatory agencies increase monitoring and developers comply fully with building standards.”

The collapse in Yaba has deeply affected the local community, with families anxiously awaiting news about missing loved ones. The incident is a stressful reminder of the broader issue of urban safety and infrastructure integrity in Nigeria’s rapidly growing cities.

Authorities have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of the collapse and hold responsible parties accountable. Meanwhile, rescue teams continue their efforts in the hope of finding more survivors.

In summary, the recent collapse of the three-storey building in Yaba has tragically claimed one life and left several people trapped, with rescue operations ongoing. The incident underscores the urgent need for stringent construction oversight and public awareness about building safety to prevent further loss of life. Residents are urged to avoid the area while emergency teams complete their work. The next days will be critical in ensuring all trapped victims are rescued and that measures to prevent recurrence are firmly implemented.

Authorities and citizens alike await the full findings of investigations, with hopes that lessons learned will improve urban safety management across Lagos and beyond.